Hello ladies and gents! 35(M) here, worked in hospitality all my life. Have been serving tables in a historic hotel in Saint Augustine for the past 5 years, and while it’s paid the bills and been a good spot for me, it’s time to move on.
Don’t really have any passions aside from working on (minor things) and modifying my car, and I have always just had good people skills. But have never really had anything scream this is what I want to do career wise! And the older I get, the more I realize I just need to throw myself into something, and stop being afraid. My girlfriend is also giving me little encouraging nudges to make some moves, and I feel she is totally right.
I have my associates degree currently, but just in general transfer studies- since I didn’t really know what I wanted to do with my life. I’ve been thinking recently about the trade school route, and have been thinking about the company my cousin works for- Northrop Grumman- and he does aircraft fabrication.
The tech school near me offers this intro to aviation fab, and I’ve heard you’re almost guaranteed a job at Northrop. The tech school also offers a welding program, and I believe same deal with getting a job at Northrop. I’m leaning towards doing something tech school related, and I think Grumman would be a solid company to work for with good benefits- and I don’t think going back to school and getting in debt just to maybe get a career in my field is the best option.
I didn’t grow up in a blue collar family, my dad is not a handy man by any means. I’ve picked up random DIY just by using the internet, mainly with my car. So I feel like I am able to learn, just didn’t grow up in a handy family. I’m thinking welding could be interesting, and I like how it really is kind of an art form when you exceed at it.also think that it could lead to more options outside of an aircraft hanger setting. And I think aircraft fab would be solid at least. But need to talk to my cousin more- to see what it actually entails. Also read that electricians, or plumbing or hvac would be good to get into- I just don’t see those programs offered at the tech school/ not one of the options getting a job at Grumman. But need to talk to tech school about what the options are affiliated with NG.
Basically I feel stuck, and complacent. Don’t want to be serving tables when I’m 50. Been comfortable at my job, and i no longer really feel any worth doing it. What would you guys suggest in my shoes? Obviously I don’t have to try and work at Northrop Grumman, and could look at other options, just seen how this company has been good for my cousin- and that it has good benefits. Really could just use some wisdom and insight! Thanks ladies and gents 😊